Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s recent speech was a masterclass in political framing. His allegation that Raila Odinga operates “two parallel teams” within the government, followed by the branding of Odinga as the “real watermelon,” is a calculated move with clear objectives.
This narrative serves a crucial purpose for the Kenya Kwanza administration. By publicly naming Raila as the architect of internal sabotage, Gachagua is creating a convenient scapegoat for any governmental failures or delays. The “watermelon” allegory is a powerful, culturally resonant tool designed to discredit the opposition leader and instill distrust in his motives. It paints a picture of a relentless adversary who cannot be trusted, thereby rallying the Kenya Kwanza base and putting public servants on notice.
This is more than just political mudslinging; it’s an attempt to control the political discourse. By framing Raila Odinga as an insidious “green-red” operative, Gachagua is seeking to preemptively explain away future governance challenges and solidify his own position as a vigilant defender of the administration against both external and internal threats.
